The director of ABC television, Richard Finlayson, has resigned before a major restructure of the corporation by its managing director, Michelle Guthrie.

“I have decided that after more than three very satisfying and rewarding years as Director of ABC TV, it is time to move on to the next stage of my career,” Finlayson said in a statement on Friday.

Finlayson, who will leave in March, said it had been “an honour and privilege” to work at the ABC. “I am very confident I leave the business well positioned to succeed.”

Guardian Australia reported on Friday that Guthrie was planning changes to the television department. On Thursday night the ABC denied Finlayson was going to resign.

In an email to staff Guthrie said it was important to “acknowledge now the contribution that Richard has made”.

“He has presided over an outstanding slate of programming and has developed a digital strategy that has entrenched iview as Australia’s best TV VOD service,” Guthrie said.

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“Moreover, Richard has recruited and nurtured a very talented group of people who have worked creatively with other ABC divisions and the broader TV sector.”

Finlayson is the third senior executive to resign since Guthrie took over from Mark Scott in May 2015. The digital network director Angela Clark left in September, followed by the chief executive of international Lynley Marshall.

He told the team in November their positions would be made redundant and a series of 17 one-off science documentaries would be commissioned to replace the program.

Last year Finlayson sent staff a bizarre email saying he had hired an expert to improve the decor and atmosphere for those working in the executive division.

“We have engaged a creative designer to come up with some innovative, mood-enhancing wall decorations and colours, suggest soft furnishings for breakout areas,” he said. “I want to really F … the television floors. Funky, fun and functional.”

In his message to staff announcing his departure, Finlayson said: “We have an outstanding slate of original programs across every genre that has won unprecedented recognition and is attracting major international interest. I am very proud of distinctive and quality programs like The Secret River, The Code and Cleverman that have gone to air during my time as Director …

“We have learned how to make valuable funds go further and have made tough decisions that are the seeds of future success within an industry that is undergoing rapid change.

“Most of all, I’m proud of the incredible team in ABC TV that we have recruited, nurtured and developed. I know that the future of ABC TV and the national broadcaster is in highly capable hands.”